I am considering doing this as a day trip from Nice via bus. Wondering how much time most people spend here. All day or half day? Welcome comments on what to do / see and where to eat / drink. Assume it best to go early as it’s relatively small and has only a few narrow streets? Thanks

Vence - not Vance. Half day at most - unless you spend 30 mins in most shops. Plus Lunch time - if you choose to do so. We actually prefer nearby Tourrettes sur Loup.

Stu Dudley

In addition to the hilltop town, you can visit the Fondation Maeght, which I highly recommend.

Another highly recommend for the the Fondation Maeght. Also, have lunch on the terrace at the Colombe d’Or and, if possible, a gander at the art in the dining room, La Colombe d'Or History.

We were only there a few hours, that was enough for us. An attractive place for a wander around but it seemed to be nearly all small galleries, so not a lot there unless you are really into art. Had lunch at a small crepe place. We caught the bus from Nice, cheap and easy.

In Vence, there's the Matisse Chapel:

https://flic.kr/p/cNhUf1
The Fondation Maeght is an option, but keep in mind that it is closed for lunch, which might make the scheduling more difficult. When we did this via public transportation we started at the Fondation and arrived there just as they closed for lunch. The bus schedules are not frequent enough to change plans. We missed Vence on that trip.

https://flic.kr/p/8jEtDJ

In Vence, please see if the Matisse chapel can be visited. In St Paul, only Fondation Maeght is interesting. Tourettes sur Loup is excellent. Also other hilltop villages nearby (eg St Jeannet)

Without a doubt, the Matisse Chapel is among my favorite memories.....but, be sure to check visiting hours as it is often closed. Also, lunch at Colombe d'Or is really lovely, especially on the terrace.

St Paul de Vecnce is lovely before the tour buses get there (around 9:30-1000 then not so much. I got there around 8 and and absolutely loved it till the crowds poured in so if there is any way you can get there early do that. If you are just exploring the beautiful town 2 hours, or three max is plenty. I agree with Stu about Tourrettes sur Loup, I think I liked it even better. And the town of Vence itself - larger and not quite as 'quaint' but still a wonderful, wonderful place is worth visiting. If you rented a car you could do all three in one day. Not sure about pubic transportation. Driving in the hills around and between those towns is great.

https://andiamo.zenfolio.com/p43619107